NFL Futures: MVP Picks

BEST BET: (1u) Deshaun Watson @ +1600

• Watson has registered 10 game winning drives in the last two seasons

The reason we’re backing Watson

When setting my own personal odds for the MVP race there were four names I had circled as my favorites, Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, Russell Wilson and Deshaun Watson. All four have a great chance of winning the MVP award in 2020, but the value for three of them is simply not there. However, when it comes to Watson there is absolutely some value to be found. Despite being bombarded with pass rushers through the past two seasons, Watson has put up impressive numbers, including 52 touchdowns and 21 wins from 31 games. 10 of those wins have come on the back of a game winning drive from Watson.

Given those numbers have come while Watson has been avoiding pass rushers left and right, imagine what he could do with an effective offensive line? Watson has proven he has the ability to be a difference maker in his first three seasons, and odds twice as large as the other three favorites presents tremendous value.

(1u) Carson Wentz @ +2000

• Wentz has an 81:21 TD:Int ratio over the last three seasons

The reason we’re backing Wentz

Wentz has been so impressive over the first four years of his career. It should not be forgotten that he was the runaway favorite to win the MVP award in 2017 prior to his injury. In 2019, his 4000 passing yards, 27 touchdowns and 7 interceptions are more than respectable. When you consider that no single wide receiver of his had more than 500 yards receiving, it becomes even more impressive. Wentz dealt with an ever-changing cast of characters on the outside in 2019, and if the Eagles can find him consistency then he could easily regain that 2017 form.

(1u) Baker Mayfield @ +4500

• Mayfield is just one year removed from taking home the rookie of the year award after bursting impressively onto the scene in the NFL

The reason we’re backing Mayfield

Entering 2019 there was so much hype surrounding the Browns that in some ways the only way they could go is down. Entering 2020 things will be much different. There will be no Hard Knocks shining a light on their young quarterback, and they will have a new structure in place attempting to keep the team disciplined. The Browns desperately need to address their offensive line, but if they do, then they certainly have the offensive firepower to light up the NFL. If the Browns win 10 or more games then there is every chance we are talking about Mayfield for MVP when December rolls around.